Anniversary Gifts by Year
Overview
Anniversary gifts have long been associated with particular materials or themes, but there’s no formal governing body that dictates what should be given each year. Anniversary gift lists have evolved over time and can vary across cultures or sources. Today they are more commercialized with modern, metal, and gemstone lists.
The Origins and Meaning of Anniversary Gift Lists
The tradition of giving specific gifts for each anniversary dates back centuries, with early references dating to the Middle Ages. Traditionally, these gifts were carefully selected with meaning, often representing the growth and strength of a relationship over time. For example going from paper, to wood, to crystal, to gold, and to diamond for 1st, 5th, 15th, 50th, and 60th, respectively.
Traditional, Modern, and Gemstone Anniversary Lists
Today, there are typically three types of anniversary gift lists to consider: traditional, modern, and gemstone. These lists vary in what materials are associated with each year. For instance, the traditional list recommends paper for the first anniversary, while the modern list suggests a clock. Gemstone lists often link specific stones or metals to anniversaries such as gold for the first anniversary.
Flexibility in Choosing Anniversary Gifts
While these lists are widely recognized, they are by no means set in stone. Couples are free to follow whichever list resonates with them or choose something completely different. After all, anniversaries are personal, and the gift should reflect the unique bond shared between two people. Some couples may prefer to commemorate their relationship with non-traditional gifts that hold deeper personal meaning, whether it’s a handwritten letter, an experience like a weekend getaway, or a custom-made piece of art.
It’s also important to remember that anniversaries don’t need to be celebrated every year with a gift from a formal list. While milestone anniversaries like the 10th, 25th, and 50th are often seen as significant, it’s entirely up to each couple how frequently they wish to follow these traditions. Some might opt to give a gift each year, while others may only focus on the major milestones.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to follow the traditional, modern, or gemstone list or go off-script entirely, anniversary gifts are an opportunity to celebrate your unique journey together. The key is to focus on what feels meaningful for you both and that they reflect your love, appreciation, and commitment to one another.
Anniversary Gifts by Year
| Anniversary Year | Traditional Gifts | Modern Gifts | Gemstone/Metal Gifts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Paper | Clocks | Gold (Gold Jewelry) |
| 2nd | Cotton | China | Amethyst |
| 3rd | Leather | Crystal | Moonstone |
| 4th | Fruit/Flowers | Appliances | Blue Sapphire |
| 5th | Wood | Silverware | Platinum |
| 6th | Candy/Iron | Wood | Turquoise |
| 7th | Wool/Copper | Desk Sets | Onyx |
| 8th | Bronze | Linen/Lace | Tourmaline |
| 9th | Pottery/Willow | Leather | Sapphire |
| 10th | Tin/Aluminum | Diamond Jewelry | Diamond |
| 15th | Crystal | Watches | Ruby |
| 20th | China | Platinum | Emerald |
| 25th | Silver | Silver | Silver |
| 30th | Pearl | Diamond | Pearl |
| 35th | Coral | Wooden Items | Topaz |
| 40th | Ruby | Ruby | Ruby |
| 45th | Sapphire | Crystal | Opal |
| 50th | Gold | Gold | Gold |
| 55th | Emerald | Emerald Jewelry | Emerald |
| 60th | Diamond | Diamond | Diamond |